Now in its fifth year, the prize fund totals more than £10,000, and every nominated KP will receive a gift.
Managing director Stephen Kinkead commented: “Every year the standard of entry goes up and the pressure intensifies. And every year we hear stories of KPs doing extraordinary work that goes way beyond the call of duty.
“What’s great about this competition is that so many people in the industry support it (including chef Paul Ainsworth). That’s partly because so many of us started out as KPs – including me!”
Ainsworth added: "I started out as a KP. It’s such a hard job! We (chefs) can’t function without them. To be able to celebrate kitchen porters is great – the KP of the Year is a brilliant idea.”
As well as the reigning title, the winner will receive £1,000 cash, a celebratory dinner for family and friends, as well as a Winterhalter for their work place - worth up to £8,000.
Two runners up receive cash prizes and every entrant gets a KP of the Year apron in a presentation tin.
Last year’s winner was José Núnez, The Stafford hotel (London), who was nominated by the hotel manager, Mark Surguy.
For more information or to enter a kitchen porter for KP of the Year 2018 visit www.kpoftheyear.com.